The proportion of solar and wind power generation is increasing. However, the power generated is often affected by weather conditions that causes stability issues for the grid - especially when large scale changes in demand are encountered in a short time. The micro-grid system discussed today uses high capacity battery storage and power control systems (PCS) to control power smoothing of the output and to compensate for peak power. Additionally, the power system needs to monitor the grid frequency changes in real time to avoid hazards due to excessive power changes. The weakness with conventional power systems stems from slow responses in stability adjustmentments. Using battery storage systems and AGC (automatic generation control) enhances the grid stability and can rapidly respond to the frequency and voltage adjustment commands. The benefit of this method is fast and accurate power compensation abilities that can complete the AGC adjustment commands in less than 1 second or even within microsecond. This service maintains the safe operation of the grid.

In 2011 the United States passed the FERC Order No. 755 that allowed the energy storage system to charge for AGC frequency regulation. In 2013 the FERC Order No.784 allowed the energy storage frequency regulation to be applied to the power market in the US area and in November of the same year the FERC Order No. 792 set up a screening process for immediate grid connections. Lately more and more energy companies are dedicated to developing large battery modules, and so far the commercial energy storage systems officially released in the US for frequency regulation are up to 100 megawatts. A Japanese company has adopted Chroma’s 17020 Regenerative Battery Pack Test Systems with current specification over 2500A to validate the battery module’s performance, lifecycle and momentary discharge capabilities.

The Chroma Model 17020 is a high precision battery module inspection system equipped with battery discharge energy recovery functions, and its featured low heat production increases the system’s stability and durability. This system is suitable for testing and validating various secondary batteries and super capacitor modules. Some of the applications include energy storage systems, electric bicycles and electric vehicles. The Model 17020 system diagram is shown below.

With 30 years of experience in test and measurement instrumentation, Chroma is able to provide a wide variety of testing solutions for power and storage batteries. These include Regenerative Battery Pack Test Systems for battery cells, battery modules and battery packs, BMS test systems, Battery Pack Auto Test Systems, battery simulators and super capacitors. These solutions are in use worldwide by manufacturers and third party laboratories. For any questions regarding the inspection system for battery modules (EOL), provide your contact information and we will reach out to you for further service.